Kampala, Uganda, is hosting a pivotal four-day workshop by the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) aimed at shaping a unified Air Operations Manual to strengthen regional air coordination.
The gathering underscores the importance of seamless cooperation among member states during crises.The workshop was formally opened by Brigadier General Stephen Kashure, EASF Joint Chief of Staff, who stressed the need to harmonize air capabilities across the region.
He highlighted that unified procedures will allow for more efficient and timely responses to any security challenges.Technical experts from Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda are collaborating to develop a combined air operations framework.
Their work includes drafting a detailed Air Operations Manual and a memorandum of understanding to guide joint air missions.Brig Gen Kashure emphasized that the initiative carefully balances operational readiness with respect for national sovereignty.
Participating countries will maintain control of their forces while benefiting from a standardized regional system.“This marks a crucial step toward improving regional air response,” Brig Gen Kashure said. “By establishing clear protocols and fostering interoperability, we are enhancing our collective ability to act swiftly and effectively when needed.”EASF Coordinator Colonel Jancy Bizimana highlighted that the workshop’s participants represent a wealth of technical expertise.
Their collaboration is a testament to the commitment of member states to strengthen regional security mechanisms.The Eastern Africa Standby Force functions as a key regional peace support mechanism under the African Standby Force framework, part of the African Peace and Security Architecture established in 2002. Its mission is to plan and execute rapid peace support operations when crises arise.
Through this workshop, EASF is building a stronger, more coordinated air force network capable of rapid deployment, ensuring that Eastern Africa’s peacekeeping forces are ready, unified, and efficient in responding to regional emergencies.
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